Introduction: Alternanthera Rosafolia is a stunning aquarium plant known for its vibrant red and pink leaves, adding bold color to any aquascape. It is especially popular for creating eye-catching focal points or background accents in planted tanks. Its tissue culture format ensures a clean and pest-free plant, ideal for optimal growth in your aquarium.
Origin: Alternanthera Rosafolia, also known as Alternanthera reineckii ‘Rosafolia’, is native to South America. It grows in tropical freshwater environments, where it thrives in nutrient-rich water with plenty of light.
Scientific Name: The scientific name of this plant is Alternanthera reineckii ‘Rosafolia’.
Lighting Requirements: Alternanthera Rosafolia requires high lighting to maintain its vibrant red and pink hues. It thrives under 8 to 10 hours of bright light per day. Insufficient lighting may cause the plant to lose its coloration and grow leggy.
Care Level: With a care level of 6 on a scale of 1 to 10, Alternanthera Rosafolia is best suited for aquarists with some experience in plant care. It requires specific conditions, including high lighting and nutrient-rich water, to thrive.
Preferred Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
- pH Level: 5.5 to 7.5
- GH Level (General Hardness): 4 to 12 dGH
- KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 3 to 8 dKH
Placement: Alternanthera Rosafolia is ideal for use as a midground or background plant. Its striking colors and upright growth make it perfect for creating vibrant accents or adding height and contrast to your aquascape.
Growth Rate: This plant has a moderate growth rate. With proper care, it will grow steadily, but regular trimming is needed to maintain its shape and prevent it from overshadowing smaller plants.
CO2 and Fertiliser: For the best growth, CO2 supplementation and regular dosing of liquid fertilizers are highly recommended. This plant requires a nutrient-rich environment to maintain its health and coloration. A well-balanced fertilizer, especially one rich in iron, will enhance its vibrant red tones.
Potential Problems: Alternanthera Rosafolia can suffer from dull coloration or stunted growth if not provided with adequate lighting, CO2, and nutrients. In low-tech tanks, it may grow slowly and lose its vibrant red color, turning greenish if light levels are too low.
Compatible Fishes: Alternanthera Rosafolia is compatible with peaceful fish species. Its dense growth provides excellent cover for small fish and invertebrates. Suitable tankmates include:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Gouramis
- Corydoras Catfish
- Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)
Other Suitable Plants: To create a visually appealing aquascape, consider pairing Alternanthera Rosafolia with other contrasting plants, such as:
- Java Fern
- Anubias species
- Rotala species
- Cryptocoryne species
- Bucephalandra species
Tropical or Cold Water? Alternanthera Rosafolia thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C).
What Fish Can Eat It? This plant is generally not consumed by fish, even by herbivorous species, due to its tough leaves. It is safe to use in community tanks without worrying about it being eaten.
A Fun Fact: Alternanthera Rosafolia is a favorite among aquascapers for creating “color breaks” in green aquascapes. Its vibrant red coloration not only adds beauty but also helps highlight other plants and features within the aquarium.
